Gum Disease

Gum disease is the  Number 1 cause of adult tooth loss in the US. So it’s very common and many people do not realize they have gum disease until the symptoms are severe. 

Diagnosing gum disease in the early stages can prevent serious outcomes of tissue and bone loss, and worse tooth loss!

There are three stages of gum disease:

• Gingivitis; treated at this stage, may cure the disease. At this stage some people notice red, swollen gums that bleed easily. Others may have no symptoms at all. 

• Periodontitis: People notice pain at this stage and the disease has started to break down gum tissue and affect the teeth and bones. Gums may begin to recede at this point. When treatment begins at this stage we can prevent gum disease from progressing further.

• Advanced periodontitis. At this stage of disease teeth become loose, or may shift. You are at risk of losing teeth, bone and gum tissue.

There Are Many High Risk Factors for Gum Disease Including: 

• Not brushing your teeth twice a day
• Irregular professional cleanings 
• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Some medications
• Defective fillings
• Crooked teeth
• Systemic disease
• Hormonal imbalance 
• Pregnancy
• Family history of gum disease

Symptoms of Gum Disease: 



• Bleeding gums during brushing
• Gums that have pulled away from the teeth
• Bad breath or bad taste
• Adult Permanent teeth that are loose for no apparent reason
• Changes in way teeth fit together when you bite